EU amends legislation for 2 new crossing points

The European Commission announced on Tuesday April 20 the official additions of two new crossing points at Ledra Street and Zodhia, where persons and goods may cross the ceasefire line on the island, saying that it is now up to the two communities to agree on their actual opening.

Greek Cypriots have been accused of delaying the openings by insisting on double-checking mined areas which have already been declared safe.

According to a Commission press release, the two crossing points are Zodia, in the Nicosia District, and Ledra Street in the town of Nicosia.

“The relevant legislation has been amended for that purpose. It is now for the two communities to agree on the actual opening of new crossing points. This will allow the new measure to come into effect,” the Commission said.

“This measure will further facilitate the movement of persons and goods across the Green Line, inter alia, to further promote intra-island trade.”

“The EU-financed de-mining of the Zodia area is almost completed. This will allow the two sides to decide further on the practical arrangements of this crossing point,” the Commission said.